Find Catharsis In Neptune’s Core’s New Song “Inside”

Photo credit: Sam Monendo

It all started with a voice memo.

Sofie Richter (vocals/guitar) of alternative indie rock band Neptune’s Core recorded the melody first. Then, she and the other members — Jackie Cywinski (guitar/vocals), Kaitlin Cywinski (drums), and Hannah Richter (bass) developed this poignant piece. Crafted with emotional artistry, “Inside” is an outlet for the band to explore brokenness. Listeners can find solace in knowing they are not alone in the anxiety stemming from the uncertainty that plagues so many.

“Inside” is full of experimentation. It’s full of agony too. The lyrics come from a real part of me. They give voice to my struggles. Belting out “When does it get better?” makes me feel something, which is why I wrote the song–to feel something and to share that feeling with others.

~ Sofie Richter

The song is soft, gently discussing such dark experiences. The vocals are breathy yet strong, eventually building up to belting with emotion overflowing. The lyricism and angelic tone creates an aura of despair, stirring up the pain people feel, only to then release it through music.

I slip away and I’m floating

I’m sick and tired of devoting

All my time in search of why I feel so empty inside

~ “Inside”

The music video for “Inside” depicts the band members unmoving and staring blankly at the camera with stolid eyes before evolving to represent the whirlwind of feelings that come with existence. Impressively, the music video was created by the band itself and edited by bassist Hannah Richter.

Throughout the majority of the video. you see all of us keep stoic expressions while we let the music show what we really are feeling. While our expressions were cold, we were representing what we show the world, but the music represents what everyone actually feels inside. This video wasn’t made to just be seen, this video was made to be felt.

~ Hannah Richter

Neptune’s Core comprises two sets of sisters, who are all best friends, which Hannah said creates mutual understanding and a deeper bond as a band. The Chicago-based group already has two albums under its belt — Evolving (2021) and Can’t Have It All (2020), but more is on the horizon for fans.

“Inside” precedes the forthcoming EP, Called Upon, which is slated for release on August 25 via Side Hustle Records. Neptune’s Core said this project shares the band members’ journey of growth and discovery, both individually and as a group.

‘Called Upon‘ is a beautifully diverse EP that truly shows how we work together in order to make music that is alive. The parts all four of us play separately naturally intertwine into unique, dynamic songs that we are extremely proud of.

~Jackie Cywinski

Pre-save Called Upon here. Witness Neptune’s Core heartfelt artistry live and celebrate Called Upon’s release in Chicago on August 26 and Wisconsin on August 5 — tickets available here. Connect with your new favorite alternative indie rock band on its website, Instagram, and YouTube.

Kara Peeler Author

Hello! I’m a journalist at Northwestern University, and I love writing about all things arts & entertainment. Keep up with my work on all platforms @karapeeler